The design is in the details when it comes to envisioning and creating the kitchen of your dreams. One “detail” that has moved from fad to popular trend in 2011 is the beverage station or beverage center.

Exactly what that looks like depends on lifestyle needs and space constraints.  One thing is certain: the concept of the kitchen beverage station has come a long way from a simple water and ice dispenser on the refrigerator door.

In fact, one of the main reasons to create a distinct beverage center is to take the heat off the main kitchen by moving some activities away from the food prep and cooking areas.

Whether your beverage of choice is pinot noir, a root beer float, decaf latte or Darjeeling, a beverage center creates a gathering place, keeps guests and the kids out of the cook’s way and generally makes daily life a little more pleasant. As with any part of your kitchen remodel, you should plan your beverage area from the beginning.

• Who is going to use it, how and when?
• What kinds of shelving, drawers or other storage should be factored in?
• What are the refrigeration/water needs?
• What appliances, electrical gadgets do you want?
• Will there be nearby or adjacent seating?

Remember, your idea for a great beverage station is limited mainly by the scope of your imagination. 

Concept #1: That’s Entertaining

My ideal beverage center is an intimate and elegant entertainment area, near the kitchen and living room. I would like refrigeration for white wines, an icemaker and storage for red wines and liquor. I want some open shelving to display crystal glassware and closed cabinets or deep drawers for barware, dishes and necessary utensils.

Concept # 2: Kid Friendly

I want to create a self-serve beverage center the whole family can enjoy. When the kids come in from school, they can help themselves to juice and snacks without being underfoot. I think pull-out drawers for snacks and supplies would be great, as well as an under counter refrigerator the kids can access. Maybe we can even add a microwave drawer for warming up snacks and a low sink.

Breakable glassware and more adult beverages can be stored out of reach in higher cabinets or shelves.

Concept # 3: Making More from Less

Having the neighbors in for a coffee break or a nice afternoon tea would be great. But, where will we find the space?  I was thinking about a multi-use, multi-level island/ divider that borders on the great room, or maybe taking over the pantry that’s become a catch all storage area.